Norfolk

Blakeney Freshes coastal wildlife walk

This stroll through Blakeney village and around Blakeney Freshes is fantastic for spotting wildlife, particularly birds. There are also excellent views to enjoy around Blakeney and Cley harbours. An ideal walk for families.

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Total steps: 5

Start point

Bus stop, St Nicolas' Church, Blakeney, grid ref: TG032436

Step 1

From the bus stop head away from the church into Blakeney village and turn right down the High Street. At the end of the High Street, you will come out onto Blakeney Quay.

Step 2

Cross the main car-parking area of the quay and walk up onto the bank on the right-hand side. From here you can see Blakeney Freshes on your right. Take the footpath on top of the bank out towards the harbour.

Step 3

Follow the same footpath around to the right.

Golden plover, adult on moorland grass — Golden plover | © National Trust Images/Dougie Holden

Step 4

Continue along the footpath beside the river, turning right to head back inland.

River Glaven

The footpath now runs alongside the new route of the River Glaven, which was moved inland in 2006 to prevent flooding. The areas that were freshwater marsh and the old footpath route are now exposed to salt water and tides and are quickly turning into salt marsh. New rare habitats have been created as a result and are excellent for breeding birds. In summer, see breeding waders on the grazed fields, such as lapwing, avocet and redshank. Look out for marsh harriers hunting over the reed beds and sedge and reed warblers, bearded reedlings and reed buntings in the reed beds and ditches.

Male marsh harrier in flight over the saltmarsh at Morston Quay, Blakeney National Nature Reserve, Norfolk — Marsh harrier over Blakeney Nature Reserve | © National Trust Images/Rob Coleman

Step 5

Keep to the footpath on the bank until you reach the A149 between Blakeney and Cley-next-the-Sea. Cross the road and turn right, walk up the hill and cross the road again and stay on the pavement until you are back at the bus stop near St Nicholas' Church.

St Nicholas' Church

Well worth a visit while waiting for your bus, the church was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and dominates the surrounding area with its twin towers. The hammer beam roof and wealth of stained glass enhance the majesty of the building and its dimensions are comparable to a major city church. It featured in Simon Jenkins’ 1,000 Best Churches and in the Daily Telegraph's 100 favourite churches. The church provides a warm 'welcome team', WCs and freely available refreshments.

End point

Bus stop, St Nicolas' Church, Blakeney, grid ref: TG032436

Trail map

Blakeney Freshes walk map | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey

Purple sea lavender surrounding a pool of water in a marsh landscape with purple-grey moody, cloudy sky above, which is reflected in the pool

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Blakeney Office, Friary Farm, Cley Road, Norfolk, NR25 7NW (No Public Access)

01263740241

norfolkcoast@nationaltrust.org.uk

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Blakeney Freshes coastal wildlife walk

Total steps: 5